July 2013 Business Magazine

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leading leadingproviders. providers. leading providers. Call Callyour yourbroker brokeror the Call your broker ororthe the MBA MBAat 814/833-3200 MBA atat814/833-3200 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660,or oror800/815-2660, 800/815-2660, oror visit visitmbausa.org mbausa.orgfor for visit mbausa.org for more moreinformation. information. more information.


BUSINESS M A G A Z I N E Manufacturer & Business Association

VOLUME XXVI, NUMBER 7

ON ROAR THE 2013 Roar on the Shore速

Rally Benefits Area Businesses, Raises Money for a Good Cause / Page 12

JULY 2013


Accountable

to Our Community. We believe success carries with it great responsibility. A responsibility to give something back through service and volunteering. And to work hard to make our region a better place. Malin Bergquist’s commitment to community. It all adds up.

www.malinbergquist.com www.mbcharities.org


12

July 2013

EDITORIAL >

9 / Health Matters

FEATURES > 3 / Spotlight

Tips for establishing a well-designed smoking The Manufacturer & Business Association cessation program that best works for you. explains more about why it founded — TIM CLINE and continues to host — the Roar on the Shore® rally each year, with the ultimate 11 / Legal Brief goal of impacting area businesses and the Learn how Pennsylvania tax credits can northwest Pennsylvania region. benefit local charities and reduce your 5 / Risking It All overall taxes. JOHN A. LAUER Mark Hanaway, a member of the Association’s Board of Governors and vice 17 / Aging & Wellness president of Tech Molded Plastics, an ISO 9001:2000 certified injection molded plastics How a new self-assessment tool is company based in Meadville, talks about the helping area families avoid the dangers experience of growing up as a member of a of caregiver distress. family owned business. DIANNE CUNNINGHAM

5 6

12 / 2013 Roar on the Shore® Among the more than 100,000 rally goers, amazing headline acts, and scenic rides throughout the Great Lakes region, organizers explain why Roar on the Shore® is truly a bike rally with a purpose — and raising more than $585,000 for charitable organizations in the past seven years.

21 / On the Hill While candidates for federal and state races are high profile, those at the local level have just as much impact on the constituents The 2013 Roar® Ride/Walk Map showcases all the happenings in The Hub, as well as the they serve. Read more about the choices for Pennsylvania’s Superior Court and the sixth 14 blocks of restaurants, bars and local Judicial District of Erie County. businesses that surround it. Download yours now at roarontheshore.com!

DEPARTMENTS > 6 / Business Buzz 18 / HR Connection

22 / HR Q&A 24 / People Buzz

Read on the Go! For the most current Business Magazine updates, visit our website, www.mbabizmag.com, fan us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter! July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 1


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SPOTLIGHT > by Karen Torres

VOL. X X VI, NO. 7 JULY 2013

Blue Ocean Strategy Center

Manufacturer & Business Association Board of Governors

Roar on the Shore®: A Greater Purpose The Roar on the Shore® bike rally was created in 2007 for a greater purpose — to serve as a major fundraising event in Erie, Pennsylvania. Now entering its seventh year in 2013, Roar® has quickly become one of the fastest-growing free bike rallies in the United States. Here, the Manufacturer & Business Association (MBA) explains more about why it founded — and continues to host — the rally each year, with the ultimate goal of impacting area businesses and the northwest Pennsylvania region. Why did the MBA Board of Governors approve the idea of a bike rally? As an employers’ association, our mission is to provide our members with information and services that support their business and community interests. Roar on the Shore® was created as a unique community event that would impact not only the local economy, but raise significant funds for a different worthwhile cause each year. We researched different types of events, but landed on a bike rally because it appealed across all demographics, was unique to our area and showed a great potential for growth. To date, the Manufacturer & Business Association, through Roar®, has contributed more than $585,000 to charity — and we estimate the annual economic impact of the rally to be more than $20 million. Let’s focus on the small businesses that benefit from the rally. What impact have they seen? The direct impact on the regional business community is almost incalculable. In the weeks leading up to the rally, Roar®, along with many local businesses, hires contractors and additional employees to prepare for and handle the influx of visitors to our area. During the rally, hotels and motels within a 50-mile radius are booked solid. The Hub in Perry Square houses more than 80 local and national vendors — and within the surrounding 14-block area, more than 56 bars, taverns and restaurants are ringing the cash registers. Even our escorted rides showcase local wineries, breweries and motorcycle dealerships. How critical are the sponsors to the rally? Simply put, Roar® doesn’t exist without them. These employers and organizations, which we consider to be our partners, see the value and importance of the rally as well as the vision behind it. By investing in this three-day event, they are helping to spur economic growth and visibility for our community in the long term. The true return on investment is immeasurable. How has Roar® been able to promote the region? At Roar®, bikers are able to experience the best of the Great Lakes region. From Erie’s spectacular bayfront and Presque Isle State Park, to Geneva on the Lake and Pymatuning State Park, on to North East’s award-winning wine country and Meadville’s specialty microbreweries, riders will see some of the most beautiful scenery this part of the country has to offer. People who’ve never been to the area are amazed at what treasures they discover here — and are particularly impressed by the people because they’re made to feel so welcomed and appreciated. How has expanding the number of motorcycle rides and events been key to the rally’s success? The real key to success in any endeavor is the people — and we’ve been fortunate that our mayor, elected officials and community have been behind this event since day one. This year, we are expecting more than 100,000 bike enthusiasts from across the country to descend upon the shores of Lake Erie for three days of scenic rides, bands, stunt shows, vendors and bikes, bikes, bikes. When you combine powerhouse entertainment with a warm welcome, the growth comes naturally. It’s why the Roar® has grown so big, so fast – and why bikers from near and far are making Erie their summer vacation destination. What’s new and exciting about this year’s rally? A lot. In addition to this year’s Grand Marshal — racing legend Kyle Petty — this year’s lineup of headline acts is fantastic — Firehouse on Thursday, July 18; Jackyl on Friday, July 19; and Queensrÿche on Saturday, July 20. Additionally, this year’s rally boasts eight different scenic rides, including two new ones – Roar Through History and the Roar to the Microbrews Dice Run. These new events provide even more opportunities for riders to see our beautiful lakefront community, tour local landmarks and businesses, and have a chance at winning cash prizes. Of course, the best part is that proceeds from Roar® 2013 will benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Erie. What is the best way to learn more about Roar®? Visit our website at roarontheshore.com or, better yet, come and experience it for yourself.

Editor in Chief Executive Editor

Joel Berdine John Cline Dale Deist Bill Hilbert Jr. Mark Hanaway Donald Hester Timothy Hunter Paul Kenny J. Gordon Naughton Dennis Prischak Sue Sutto Ralph Pontillo rpontillo@mbausa.org John Krahe jkrahe@mbausa.org

Managing Editor & Senior Writer

Karen Torres ktorres@mbausa.org

Contributing Writers

Tim Cline Dianne Cunningham John A. Lauer

Photography

Ron Stephens La Mirage Studio 814/835-1041 The Boys & Girls Club of Erie

Advertising Sales

Design, Production & Printing

Patty Welther 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 pwelther@mbausa.org Printing Concepts Inc. printcon@erie.net

ON THE COVER: When the Manufacturer & Business Association Board of Governors created the Roar on the Shore® motorcycle rally in 2007, the idea was to benefit a broad base of businesses while helping to raise money for a worthwhile cause. Now, the three-day, American Motorcyclist Associationsanctioned event has done that and more — fostering Erie’s image as a summer vacation destination while injecting more than $20 million into the local economy. For full story, see page 12. Mission Statement The Manufacturer & Business Association is dedicated to providing information and services to its members that will assist them in the pursuit of their business and community interests. – Board of Governors Manufacturer & Business Association 2171 West 38th Street Erie, Pa. 16508 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660 www.mbausa.org © Copyright 2013 by the Manufacturer & Business Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of editorial, pictorial or advertisements created for use in the Business Magazine, in any manner, without written permission from the publisher, is prohibited. Unsolicited manuscripts cannot be returned unless accompanied by a properly addressed envelope bearing sufficient postage. The magazine accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or artwork. The Business Magazine and Manufacturer & Business Association do not specifically endorse any of the products or practices described in the magazine. The Business Magazine is published monthly by the Manufacturer & Business Association, 2171 West 38th Street, Erie, Pa. 16508. Phone: 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 3



EDITORIAL > by Karen Torres

EDITORIAL > by Ralph Pontillo

Risking It All

40 Years of Inspiring the Competitive Spirit The Business Magazine’s “Risking It All“ section highlights entrepreneurs who make sacrifices to build their businesses in our region. This month, we sat down with Mark Hanaway, a member of the Association’s Board of Governors and vice president of Tech Molded Plastics, an ISO 9001:2000 certified injection molded plastics company based in Meadville, to talk about the experience of growing up as a member of a family owned business. In 1972, Bill and Eva Hanaway started planning the future of Tech Tool & Die, Inc. They had four very young children, very little money, Bill’s experience as a journeyman toolmaker, and a lot of motivation. But after months of dreaming and planning, Tech opened its doors for business in Meadville in 1973. There were only a few used machines on the floor to help shape the future for this young startup. And by the end of the month in January 1973, Bill and Eva began the journey of long days and restless nights to nurture their infant dream.

A recent photo of Scott, Mark, their mother Eva, and Doug Hanaway at their family owned business, Tech Molded Plastics Inc. in Meadville.

Their story is an American story. Tech started as a small tooling and mold-building business in the back of a rented garage. Since then, it has grown to become a key employer in the community with more than 125 employees, a plastics business focused on innovation, training and technology, and a major sponsor of team-based events that inspire the competitive spirit and entrepreneurship — a trait passed from Bill and Eva to their children, who run the business today. “As kids, you don’t receive a paycheck but what you do receive is a sense of responsibility,” explains Tech Molded Plastics Vice President Mark Hanaway, of the lessons he learned from his parents early on. “When it came to getting a bicycle or new tires for bicycles, we had to work odd jobs to get those. You just don’t have the funds or the resources outside when you are reinvesting as a small business, everything goes back into that business.”

Bill Hanaway (shown here) was a journeyman toolmaker who started Tech Tool & Die, Inc. with his wife Eva in 1973.

As the children grew up and took on bigger roles in the business, Mark and his brothers, Scott and Doug, were fortunate in the roles they pursued. Scott grew up as a toolmaker and was into the tooling trade of the business. Mark went the college route and learned the communications and business administration side of the company, while Doug, also a toolmaker, took more interest in plastics processing and learned to be an expert processor. “With that, we had the combination of all three skill sets working in concert toward the common purpose,” notes Mark. “In a lot of family businesses, you have a lot of overlap with individuals in their skill sets where we were very diverse, which then complemented the growth.” The Hanaways say they are equally committed to investing in both technology and their employees. Tech Molded Plastics is one of only a few precision molders in North America that has the ability to train internally for the internationally recognized Master Molder Certification. The company also does a tremendous amount in charitable learning for local colleges and universities that want to expose students to real-world manufacturing.

The company started as a small tooling and mold-building business and is now one of the major employers in Crawford County.

At the heart of Tech, however, the “family dynamic“ is the driving force behind the company’s culture and future success. “We have been very fortunate because we have grown the company as a family business so we design our systems and processes as family friendly,” Mark says. “We are also open to getting people involved with the business as a whole, making sure that we receive insights and inputs to make the company grow. Our people are part of the decision matrix.” Tech’s story is indeed a great lesson of how to best continue a business from one generation to the next. “In our situation, we started out on the ground level where we were cleaning machines at the age of 8 and 9 years old and we were working outside the business as part of being a family concept,” Mark says. “It is just what you did. What I would encourage businesses or small family businesses to do is make sure that they too have at least a year or two of experience working for someone else. Give themselves an opportunity to see business strategies, learning experiences other than just the family business itself.”

Tech specializes in precision, high volume, injection mold design, tooling, production, assembly and packaging of plastic products.

For more information about Tech Molded Plastics, visit www.ttmp.com. July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 5


Business Buzz ERIE BOLT CORPORATION CELEBRATES CENTENNIAL Erie Bolt Corporation (EBC Industries), a leading manufacturer of critical application fasteners, forgings and machined parts, is marking its 100th year of business in the fastener business at its Erie facility. The current plant, located at 1325 Liberty Street, was built for The Erie Bolt and Nut Company in 1913 and continues to serve industry and the community today. The company’s official date of incorporation is November 13, 1913. For more information, visit ebcind.com. PENN STATE BEHREND MOVING TO FOUR-YEAR NURSING PROGRAM Penn State Erie, The Behrend College, will begin offering a four-year bachelor of science nursing degree in 2014. The program, which replaces the two-year associate degree, better aligns with the projected employment patterns in an increasingly complex health-care system. The Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing

ERIEZ PRESENTS MERWIN AWARD TO HI PRO EQUIPMENT Eriez, a world authority in separation technologies headquartered in Erie, recently presented its 2012 Merwin Award to Hi Pro Equipment of Kalamazoo, Michigan. “This award is presented annually to the most outstanding Eriez U.S. field sales From left: Dave Heubel of Eriez, Russ Campbell and Randy Clinger of Hi office, selected for their exceptional sales Pro, and Charlie Ingram of Eriez. performance and first-class service and support,” said Charlie Ingram, Eriez vice president of Sales & Marketing. The Merwin Award was established in 1993 and named for the Merwins, Eriez’ founding family. As described on the plaque given to all winners, the Merwin Award is presented for outstanding contributions to the advancement of the ideals and mission of Eriez Magnetics using the Golden Rule as a guide, exemplified by superior sales performance, providing customers high quality service and support, and striving to conduct affairs in an efficient, capable and friendly manner. For more information, visit www.eriez.com. has endorsed the move. Data from the Institute of Medicine, a division of the National Academy of Sciences, also supports it. The institute’s Future of Nursing Report recommends that 80

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DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Karen Torres

ISM EARNS GOVERNOR’S ACHIEVEMENT AWARD FOR OUTSTANDING HIRING, WORK-FORCE DEVELOPMENT Ten employers and training providers recently received Governor’s Achievement Awards for outstanding hiring and workFrom left: Scott Sheely, chair of the Pennsylvania Workforce force development success. Among the Development Association, Department Secretary Michelle Stanton, Rutkowski Jr. of ISM, Duane Zimmer, Rick Cornwell and awardees was Jim Rutkowski Jr. of Industrial Jim Michelle Zieziula. Sales and Manufacturing in Erie, who was presented with the western Pennsylvania award. Representatives of state work-force development agencies recognized the businesses for their accomplishments at the 29th annual Pennsylvania Partners Employment, Training & Education Conference being held at the Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. “The businesses recognized today are the embodiment of workforce development in Pennsylvania,” said Labor & Industry Secretary Julia Hearthway. “Their commitment to training employees and overcoming obstacles in the workplace will serve our citizens by shaping a stronger economic future for Pennsylvania.” For more information, visit www.ismerie.com. Jo Anne Carrick, coordinator of the nursing program at Penn State Behrend. “Nurses will need additional education and skills to address these changes.”

For more information, visit www.psbehrend.psu.edu.

LOGISTICS PLUS NAMED IMPACT AWARD FINALIST The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania has announced Logistics Plus, headquartered in Erie, as a finalist for the 2013 Governor’s Impact Award in the “Export Impact Award“ category. The Impact Awards were created to recognize companies and individuals who are investing in Pennsylvania and creating jobs. Logistics Plus was to be recognized by Governor Tom Corbett, the Department of Community and Economic Development, and Team PA Foundation at an awards luncheon in Hershey on May 23. Logistics Plus is a “global solutions“ company with more than 250 employees in 19 countries. Established in 1996 to manage the freight logistics for GE Transportation, Logistics Plus has since grown into a diverse business offering a full range of logistics services. For more information, visit www.logisticsplus.net.

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Health Matters

EDITORIAL > By Tim Cline

Ready to Stop Smoking? Put a Quit Plan in Place Simply wanting to quit smoking is often not enough motivation to guarantee success. If you’re going to be like most successful quitters, you will need to build a quit plan that’s designed to work for you. You need a well-designed plan to quit smoking. Tips to Get Started: t $IPPTF B i2VJU %BZ w This is a day you decide to completely go smoke-free. You may need up to two weeks to prepare. t .BLF TUPQQJOH TNPLJOH ZPVS primary focus. Set aside time every day to work at it, including making a list of action steps to stay on track. t $VMUJWBUF TVQQPSU GSPN FJUIFS a friend or a health coach. This will help you work through every stage of the process — getting ready to quit; quitting; and staying quit. t #F QSFQBSFE GPS TFUCBDLT Do not view slip-ups as a reason to give up. Take them in stride, adjust your plan and quickly get back on course. t 4UBZ QPTJUJWF Quitting smoking presents many challenges, but you should look at each one as an opportunity to succeed and then celebrate your successes. How Are You ‘Hooked’? To know how to quit, you have to understand how you are hooked. Here’s some advice on how to understand these hooks: 1. Nicotine dependence. Nicotine is addictive. Addicted smokers experience unpleasant symptoms — called nicotine withdrawal — when their supply of nicotine is interrupted. It’s important to

remember that the symptoms go away in a week or so. The problem is they can be very unpleasant while they last — irritability, anxiety, impatience, and restlessness can weaken your resolve. You need to be ready to deal with withdrawal symptoms. Cessation medications are readily available and come in a variety of forms. 2. Habit. Over the years you have created links between your daily routines and cigarettes. For example, you may like to smoke when you have a cup of coffee, or when you drink an alcoholic beverage. Over time, these connections may develop into habits. To break these habits, you need to think about the routines you have that always include smoking and find creative ways to change them up, which do not include lighting up. 3. Crutch. Do you feel there are times in your life when you truly need a cigarette? Do cigarettes seem to help you handle stressful situations? Do they help suppress your appetite and, therefore, keep you from gaining weight? Or, do you rely on them to help you relax? Over time, you may think that cigarettes are, indeed, helpful in those situations, but the fact is that millions of others face those same situations and do so every day without smoking. You need to learn — and you can only do so by quitting — that you do not need cigarettes to accomplish things and that cigarettes are really harming you instead of making you feel better.

Did You Know? t $VUUJOH CBDL TMPXMZ DBO NBLF quitting more difficult. As you smoke less, the amount of nicotine in your body drops. If the level gets too low, you may have withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, restlessness, impatience, headaches, and strong cravings for cigarettes. By smoking less, you extend the amount of time you feel uncomfortable. t 5IF TVQQPSU PG B GSJFOE JT WFSZ helpful in quitting. You need someone who understands how important this is to you and who can encourage you to keep going when you feel like giving in. For more information on quitting smoking, visit www.upmchealthplan. com/pdf/journeytoasmokefreelife.pdf.

Tim Cline is the senior director of Clinical Training and Development for UPMC Health Plan, which is part of the UPMC Insurance Services Division. The integrated partner companies of the UPMC Insurance Services Division, which offer a full range of insurance programs and products, also include UPMC WorkPartners, LifeSolutions, UPMC for You (Medical Assistance), UPMC for Life (Medicare), UPMC for Kids, Askesis Development Group, EBenefits Solutions, and Community Care Behavioral Health.

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Legal Brief

EDITORIAL > By John A. Lauer

Benefit Local Charities and Reduce Your Overall Taxes with Pennsylvania Credits Pennsylvania offers two unique tax credits that provide direct support to local charities, the Educational Improvement Tax Credit (“EITC“) and the CommunityBased Service Credit (“CBSC“). These credits for eligible businesses reduce Pennsylvania and federal income taxes for the business (or the business’s owners) and provide the local community with support. EITC The EITC provides qualifying businesses with a Pennsylvania tax credit equal to 75 percent of eligible contributions made to Pennsylvania educational organizations. The EITC benefit can be increased to 90 percent if the business makes equalsized contributions for two consecutive years (i.e., if a business agrees to make a $10,000 contribution in two consecutive years, it would receive a $9,000 tax credit each year as opposed to a $7,500 credit for a one-time contribution). CBSC The CBSC provides qualifying businesses with a Pennsylvania tax credit equal to 50 percent of its eligible contributions to Pennsylvania charities that provide community-based services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or mental illness. The CBSC can be increased to 75 percent in the second and following years that a qualifying business makes an eligible contribution. Federal Tax Benefits Associated with Pennsylvania Credit In addition to providing a credit against Pennsylvania tax liability, an EITC or CBSC contribution also provides federal tax benefits. This double tax benefit is especially true for the owners of a “flowthrough“ entity (i.e., S Corp, Partnership, or LLC). The EITC or CBSC contribution made by a business qualifies as a charitable contribution for federal income tax purposes. In a flow-through entity, the contribution passes out to the business’s owners and may be

deducted as an itemized deduction on the owner’s individual income tax returns, thereby reducing the owner’s federal taxable income. Alternative Minimum Tax Benefit The EITC or CBSC also provides a benefit against the Alternative Minimum Tax (“AMT“). Essentially, the AMT re-computes taxable income (“AMT Taxable Income“) by disallowing certain deductions that are allowed in computing regular taxable income to insure each taxpayer pays a “minimum“ level of tax. Although deductible for regular taxable income, state income taxes paid are NOT a permissible deduction in calculating AMT taxable income, whereas charitable contributions ARE deductible for AMT tax purposes. By investing in the EITC or CBSC, a taxpayer is converting an AMT non-deductible state income tax payment to a deductible charitable contribution, potentially saving substantial AMT tax. What Does This Mean for Your Business? To help illustrate the tax benefits of these credits, assume ABC, LLC (“ABC“) is owned by two individuals: Y and Z. In 2013, ABC has income of $100,000 that is passed out to Y and Z equally. Y and Z would each owe $1,535 in Pennsylvania tax on this income ($50,000 x 3.07-percent tax rate). Now, let’s assume ABC is accepted into the EITC program for two years and agrees to make a $3,000 contribution each year to a qualifying charity. ABC would receive a $2,700 Pennsylvania tax credit ($3,000 x 90 percent) both years, which passes out equally to Y and Z ($1,350 to each) thereby reducing each of their Pennsylvania tax liabilities by $1,350.

by each of them). If Y or Z was subject to the AMT, the EITC contribution has the effect of lowering the owner’s AMT taxable income (because charitable contributions are deductible for AMT purposes, whereas the state income tax that would have been paid is not). Every business owner should consult his or her tax advisers about the substantial Pennsylvania and federal tax benefits to be gained by applying for the EITC and CBSC credits, especially if the business or its owners are subject to the AMT. To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the IRS, we inform you that any federal tax advice contained in this article is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code. For more information about charitable contributions, please contact John A. Lauer at MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP at 814/870-7712 or jlauer@mijb.com.

John A. Lauer is a senior partner with the law firm of MacDonald, Illig, Jones & Britton LLP, where he is chairman of the firm’s Trusts & Estates Group. He is also a member of the firm’s Business and Tax Groups. Lauer’s practice consists primarily of Estate and Tax Planning, Estate and Trust Administration, Elder Law, and Business Law.

In addition to the Pennsylvania tax benefit, ABC’s $3,000 contribution passes out to Y and Z and would be claimed as a charitable deduction on Y’s and Z’s respective U.S. income tax returns ($1,500 July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 11


On THE

ROAR sHORE

Rally Benefits Area Businesses, Raises Money for a Good Cause

Among the more than 100,000 rally goers, amazing headline acts, and scenic rides throughout the Great Lakes region, Roar on the Shore® is truly a bike rally with a purpose. When the Manufacturer & Business Association Board of Governors approved the one-of-a-kind event in 2007, the idea was to benefit a broad base of businesses while helping to raise money for a worthwhile cause. The three-day, American Motorcyclist Association-sanctioned event has done that and more — fostering Erie’s image as a summer vacation destination while injecting more than $20 million into the local economy. Organizers say this increased spending not only profits local bars, restaurants and shops as well as area hotels and motels and other lodging, but also helps boost part-time employment. “Roar on the Shore® is truly a unique event not only because of the incredible economic impact it makes to our community and the charitable organizations that have benefited, but because it is completely funded by the private sector, with no local, state or federal funds required, requested or used,” explains rally spokeswoman Tammy Polanski.

This year, the beneficiary of the rally is the Boys & Girls Club of Erie, a nonprofit guidance and youth development agency founded in 1895 that inspires and enables school-age youth, particularly those from disadvantaged circumstances, to become productive and engaged citizens through use of the arts, sports and fitness, health and life skills, social recreation, guidance and education, and character and leadership training. “It’s hope and opportunity for kids from disadvantaged circumstances. The kids who come to the Boys & Girls Club are, by and large, living in poverty, kids who have one parent, don’t have a lot going for them and maybe don’t have a safe place to go,” explains Al Messina, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club. “This is a place where two things should happen for them that can change the trajectory of their life — one, they will find an adult mentor with whom they can establish a long-term relationship … and, we want to discover what that kid’s interest and/or talent is and then we want to nurture that.” According to Messina, the Boys & Girls Club plans to use the exposure and proceeds raised from Roar® to build a classroom that will expand its educational capabilities for years to come. “Education is a priority of a lot of the major institutions of this town, a lot of the major companies,” Messina says. “It’s a priority of our national organization and we feel very strongly that we need to make some real inroads in trying to provide supplementary education to kids so that they can succeed.” At the time of the 2013 charity announcement this past December, Roar on the Shore® Board Chairman Greg Rubino said of the Boys & Girls Club, “It’s an outstanding organization that provides critical support to young people in our community who face some very difficult challenges, as well as access to special programs that help build skill and character.” Added John Cline, chairman of the Manufacturer & Business Association’s Board of Governors and president of Sunburst Electronics and Bliley Technologies, “It is our sincere hope that our contribution will help the Boys & Girls Club of Erie continue their invaluable work in molding and guiding the youth of our community.”

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®


Giving Back, Year After Year

In the past seven years, the Roar rally has raised more than $585,000 for local charities — donations that have a direct impact on both the organizations and community at large. ®

“When you look at not only the incredible amount of money that’s been donated, but who it has helped,” says Polanski, “you want to be a part of it, whether your ride a motorcycle or not.” “Fundraisers like golf tournaments, bake sales and walks are critical components to raise money for most charitable organizations, but there are few events — like the Roar on the Shore® — that offer not only a significant cash donation, but a remarkable level of local, regional and national visibility that attracts attention to their mission.”

Last year, Roar® returned to its roots and — along with its 85,000 rally goers — raised approximately $35,000 to benefit a historic project for the local community — the Perry 200 Commemoration. The Perry 200 Commemoration marks the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie. The group’s primary project is the re-introduction of Erie history into area elementary school curriculum through a variety of special events and projects over the course of two years. “From enabling the Shriners hospital to buy medical equipment, to helping stop the cycle of domestic abuse, to aiding in the education of our area schoolchildren about the history of their community, we have found new ways for Roar® to give back,” notes Polanski. “There are few events that I can think of that have had that kind of far-reaching, diverse, community impact.”

In its first year in 2007, the Roar® — through its 10,000 rally goers and movie star Peter Fonda — helped increase awareness and raise more than $52,000 for the John Kanzius Cancer Research Foundation and its Kanzius Noninvasive Radiowave Cancer Treatment project — a project that was in mere infancy at the time.

Key Partnerships

By the following year, in July 2008, the turnout more than doubled, and so did the proceeds. More than 25,000 people attended the rally benefiting the Shriners Hospitals for Children - Erie, helping to raise $70,000 to purchase much-needed medical equipment. The not-forprofit hospital delivers state-of-the-art care for children with a host of orthopaedic and neuromusculoskeletal disorders and diseases. “This is a hospital that takes no government funding — but relies and exists on the generosity of those who believe in their mission and donate,” notes Polanski. “Children come from around the country to seek out their medical services, and we know that the donations from Roar® are helping in a critical way.”

“They believe in what we are trying to do,” says Polanski, “to create an event that attracts tens of thousands of people from across the country, injects million of dollars into our local economy, and donates the proceeds to a worthy organization each year. But make no mistake, there is no way that the MBA could put on a multi-day, city-wide event of this magnitude without the financial support of our partners in the business community.”

In 2009, rally organizers turned their attention to Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom veterans and their families. Thanks to the generosity of the 35,000-plus people who attended the rally, more than $55,000 helped benefit more than 200 servicemen and women with serious war-related injuries who receive medical services from the Veterans Affairs Medical Center. The following year, in 2010, more than 50,000 motorcycle enthusiasts and the entire Erie community raised $75,000 for construction of SafeNet’s Big Backyard Children’s Garden, a safe outdoor space for children who are victims of domestic violence. And, to honor the victims on the 10th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, the 80,000 motorcyclists who attended the 2011 rally helped raise more than $300,000 for construction of the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. On September 11, 2011, a special ride to the memorial site honored the 40 heroes of Flight 93 with 40 bikes, each with a flag carrying the name of one of the fallen. “As Americans, we had a historic opportunity to help build a monument that will honor these brave men and women,” said Polanski. “And, as Pennsylvanians, we have a duty to be the caretakers of that burial ground. That is why, for one year, we expanded our definition of community to include the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.”

Organizers say the success of the Roar on the Shore® is very much dependent on its key partners within the community — the City of Erie and sponsor businesses and organizations — that see the vision and long-term impact behind the rally.

In fact, many of the businesspeople that support the rally don’t even ride a motorcycle. “But they get it —the big picture. And each year, they see first-hand the planning and execution that makes it happen — and the energy and excitement that continues to drive its growth beyond what any of us ever imagined,” Polanski says. “When you look at those sponsor logos, you see the people and the businesses that wrote the check and made Roar® what it is today.” >

®

ON ROAR THE Now entering its seventh year in 2013, Roar on the Shore® has quickly become one of the fastest-growing free bike rallies in the United States. Each July, more than 100,000 bikers and bike enthusiasts descend on this city located along the shores of Lake Erie, to enjoy three days of rides, bands, bike contests, custom motorcycles, bike accessories and more. At Roar®, bikers are able to experience the best of the Great Lakes region. From Erie’s spectacular bayfront and Presque Isle State Park, to Geneva on the Lake and Pymatuning State Park, on to North East’s wine country and Meadville’s breweries, riders will see some of the most beautiful scenery this part of the country has to offer. Join us for Roar on the Shore® 2013 on July 18, 19 & 20! July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 13


Bigger, Badder, Better in 2013

In order to achieve the level of donations and visibility that Roar® generates, organizers are continuously looking for new ways to make the rally bigger, badder and better year after year — and 2013 is no exception. This year’s rally will feature two new rides — Roar Through History and the Roar to the Microbrews Dice Run — bringing the total number to eight over the three-day event, set for July 18, 19 & 20. The new events, including the renamed “Lake Escape: A Beer for the Deer Legend Ride,” provide even more opportunities for riders to tour local landmarks and businesses and to win cash prizes. In addition to eight great rides, the rally lineup also includes motorcycle stunt shows by renowned freestyle street bike riders Jason Britton and Eric Hoenshell of Team No Limit. There also be a meet and greet on Thursday and Friday nights at The Hub with custom bike and auto builder Danny “The Count“ Koker, owner of Counts Kustoms® and star of the History Channel’s Counting Cars. In keeping with tradition, the 2013 Roar® will feature the Bringin’ in the Roar Parade led by Grand Marshal Kyle Petty of NASCAR fame and an array of live rock concerts by Geneva, Firehouse, Jackyl and Queensryche. Roar® veterans Geneva will perform Thursday, July 18 at noon at the Biker’s Block Party at The Hub at Perry Square Main Stage. Rock and heavy metal band Firehouse will take the stage at The Hub at 9 p.m. Thursday following the bike parade. Jackyl, a rock band whose hits include “The Lumberjack,” “I Stand Alone,” and “Locked and Loaded,” will perform Friday at 9 p.m. Legendary progressive heavy metal band and three-time Grammy Award nominee Queensryche wraps up the three-day rally during Saturday’s Rock ‘N’ Roar concert at 9 p.m. on The Hub’s Main Stage. This year’s event also will feature mechanical bull riding, compliments of The Bull Guys, who promise the “real experience” with a lifelike-looking and bucking bull. The attraction will be located in The Hub at Perry Square on all three days for a mere $5 donation per ride. Demo rides

14 < www.mbabizmag.com < July 2013

with Victory and Yamaha will again be offered on all three days of this year’s Roar® starting at The Hub at Perry Square. On Sunday, July 22, the rally ends with a Biker’s Breakfast at 7 a.m. and Blessing of the Bikes at 10 a.m. at Presque Isle Downs & Casino. “We have an absolutely ‘wicked’ lineup of celebrities, headline bands, rides and events that are sure to make the 2013 Roar® the biggest rally we’ve ever had to date,” says Polanski. “But, as you know, we’re always looking ahead. Roar on the Shore® has become a major summer event for our region and, thanks to the support of everyone involved — from the Association’s Board of Governors and the city of Erie, to our sponsors, rally goers and volunteers — it’s here to stay.” To learn more about Roar on the Shore, visit www.roarontheshore.com.

Thank You Sponsors The Manufacturer & Business Association Board of Governors and Roar on the Shore® Board of Directors would like to thank the following businesses and organizations for their sponsorship of this year’s rally:


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Assisting your employees and the members of their households grief stress & anxiety anger child & adolescent issues depression relationships addiction

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EDITORIAL > By Dianne Cunningham

Aging & Wellness

Who’s at Risk? Self-Assessment Tool Helps Area Families Avoid the Dangers of Caregiver Distress Nearly one-third of adults living in Erie and Crawford counties are family caregivers who could be at risk for heart disease, diabetes, depression and various other physical and emotional maladies as a result of caregiver distress, a potentially dangerous condition brought on by the pressures of caring for a senior loved one. Studies increasingly point to caregiving as a leading stressor for families. In fact, one recent U.S. study revealed that more than half (52.8 percent) of those caring for individuals with diseases, including cancer or Alzheimer’s disease, had scores indicating depression.* In response to this growing issue, a new public awareness campaign, Family Caregiver Stress Relief, has been launched at FamilyCaregiverStressRelief.com to help family caregivers determine if they are at risk for distress and to minimize potential problems before they escalate. Included in the program are two new tools: The “Are You a Caregiver Quiz,� which is designed to help a family caregiver self-identify and recognize the role of a caregiver, and the “Family Caregiver Distress Assessment,� adapted by Dr. Peter Vitaliano of the University of Washington. This assessment allows caregivers to determine their risk for distress and resulting emotional and physical issues, including depression, heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. So many spouses and adult children are unaware of their potential risk of caregiver distress because they

don’t see themselves as caregivers. These new resources enable them to understand their role, the stresses they may face as a caregiver, and how that stress might lead to more serious health effects. Caregiver Statistics A recent Home Instead Senior Care study discovered that caregivers are prone to hiding their emotions and, as a result, their health suffers. Approximately 74 percent of caregivers who hide their feelings report fatigue, 53 percent report difficulty sleeping, 37 percent report depression, and 30 percent weight gain or loss. Research shows that certain characteristics make family caregivers more vulnerable to caregiver distress, the top being: t (FOEFS Women report more psychological distress than men (however, male caregivers have more negative physiological responses to caregiving, including higher blood sugar and insulin levels, poorer cholesterol and immune function, and obesity). t 3FMVDUBODF UP BTL GPS IFMQ Caregivers who won’t ask for help are setting themselves up for the kind of exhaustion that can lead to distress. t $ISPOJD JMMOFTT Caregivers who are already sick or have existing medical conditions, such as coronary disease, hypertension and cancer, are more vulnerable to additional negative health effects resulting from caregiver stress.

It’s important for caregivers to understand that stress can impact one’s ability to care. If they don’t care for themselves, they may put their senior loved ones at risk. Whether it’s through support groups, stress management techniques or respite help, caregivers need to realize the importance of managing their health, too. For more information about Home Instead Senior Care services in Erie and Crawford counties, call 814/464-9200 or visit www.homeinstead.com/433. Source: * Papastavrou, E., Charalambous, A., Tsangari, H., & Karayiannis, G. (2012). The burdensome and depressive experience of caring: What cancer, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s disease caregivers have in common; http://ktisis.cut.ac.cy/ handle/10488/6053 Dianne Cunningham and her husband Bob are owners and operators of Home Instead Senior Care, a licensed agency that helps seniors to “age in place“ by providing ADL (activities of daily living) and IADL (instrumental activities of daily living) personal care services throughout Erie County. They are members of the Independent Council on Aging and the Alzheimer’s Association of Northwestern Pennsylvania Advisory Board, among other organizations.

July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 17


HR Connection SURVEY: MOST CONSUMERS FAVOR COMPANIES THAT SUPPORT CHARITIES Most consumers think businesses should support charities and nearly half are more likely to buy from companies that donate to good causes, according to a study commissioned by financial services organization Foresters. The survey of 1,100 people found that 89 percent thought businesses should support charities and their local communities, and 59 percent believed that companies that did so would benefit from increased profits. When faced with a choice between two companies that offered products and services for the same price, 82 percent said their decision would be affected by whether a company engaged with charities and its local community. Nearly half (47 percent) said they would be more likely to buy from companies

that donated money to charity, while 53 percent said they were more likely to buy from businesses that did good work in their local communities. WORKPLACE GIVING MAKES SENSE, POLL SHOWS According to a Gallup poll, the ability to direct contributions to specific charities is the most significant factor in determining employee satisfaction with workplace giving programs. Here are some of the benefits: Benefits to Donors 1. Confidence in participating charities: Charities participating in workplace campaigns are carefully screened, usually in adherence to a strict set of guidelines and an application process set in place by the employer. 2. Donors can give more through payroll deduction: The option of having a small amount deducted from a biweekly payroll

enables donors to give more to the charities of their choice, over a longer period. 3. Payroll deduction is an efficient way to track charitable contributions for tax purposes. Benefits to Charities 1. Yields a steady, reliable, year-round income source for charities: And, because charities can be assured of year-round funding, the recipients of needed services are assured of year-round assistance. 2. Workplace giving is more cost-effective and efficient for charities: Charities can spend more time and resources on services and programs rather than elaborate fundraising. 3. Participation at workplace charity fairs and events broadens charities’ community outreach by placing them in touch with those that may directly or indirectly benefit from their services.

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18 < www.mbabizmag.com < July 2013


DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Stacey Bruce

Proposed Health-Care Reform Rules Promote Wellness According to a Department of Labor fact sheet on wellness, the Affordable Care Act creates new incentives and builds on existing wellness program policies to promote employer wellness programs and encourage opportunities to support healthier workplaces. The Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS), Labor and the Treasury are jointly releasing proposed rules on wellness programs to reflect the changes to existing wellness provisions made by the Affordable Care Act and to encourage appropriately designed, consumer-protective wellness programs in group health coverage. These proposed rules would be effective for plan years starting on or after January 1, 2014. In order to protect consumers from unfair practices, the proposed regulations would require health-contingent wellness programs to follow certain rules, including:

standard based on the measurement, test or screening. Programs must have a reasonable chance of improving health or preventing disease and not be overly burdensome for individuals. t 1SPHSBNT NVTU CF SFBTPOBCMZ designed to be available to all similarly situated individuals. Reasonable alternative means of qualifying for the reward would have to be offered to individuals whose medical conditions make it unreasonably difficult, or for whom it is medically inadvisable, to meet the specified healthrelated standard. t *OEJWJEVBMT NVTU CF HJWFO OPUJDF PG the opportunity to qualify for the same reward through other means. These proposed rules provide new sample language intended to be simpler for individuals to understand and to increase the likelihood that those who qualify for a different means of obtaining a reward will contact the plan or issuer to request it.

t 1SPHSBNT NVTU CF SFBTPOBCMZ designed to promote health or prevent disease. To be considered reasonably designed to promote health or prevent disease, a program would The proposed rules also implement changes have to offer a different, reasonable in the Affordable Care Act that increase the means of qualifying for the reward to maximum permissible reward under a healthAustin_MBAAds2012v2_Layout 1 6/13/12 8:55 AM Page 1 any individual who does not meet the contingent wellness program from 20 percent

to 30 percent of the cost of health coverage. These changes also would further increase the maximum reward to as much as 50 percent for programs designed to prevent or reduce tobacco use. Evidence shows that workplace health programs have the potential to promote healthy behaviors; improve employees’ health knowledge and skills; help employees get necessary health screenings, immunizations, and follow-up care; and reduce workplace exposure to substances and hazards that can cause diseases and injury. For more information about the proposed rules, please contact me at 814/8333200 or 800/815-2660. Patty Smith is the director of Employee Benefit Services at the Manufacturer & Business Association.

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July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 19


Trust and expertise: wise choices when choosing an energy supplier. Trust and expertise are critical when choosing an energy supplier. We’ve helped hundreds of Manufacturer & Business Association members, businesses of every size and type, save more than $10 million on their electricity costs. And we can help you too. Our energy experts will answer your questions, clarify the complexities and H[SODLQ WKH EHVW RSWLRQ nj[HG RU YDULDEOH WR HQVXUH PD[LPXP VDYLQJV RQ \RXU future energy usage. And our free cost-comparison analysis will show you the savings you can expect based upon current usage.

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OntheHill

DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Lori Joint

Election 2013 The Manufacturer & Business Association, headquartered in Erie County, has members in 27 Pennsylvania counties, all with different structures of local government and various ballots. For information on your local election, please contact Lori Joint at ljoint@mbausa.org. There was a primary election in May – did you vote? Are you aware of the judicial and municipal elections that

occur during odd numbered years? If you didn’t, you aren’t alone. A mere 11 percent of registered voters in Erie County cast a ballot in the 2011 primary, yet this number does not accurately reflect the importance of the offices. While president, congressional candidates, senators and state-level candidates are high profile, candidates at the local level have just as much impact on the constituents they serve.

Superior Court The Superior Court was established in 1895. It is one of Pennsylvania’s two statewide intermediate appellate courts. The Superior Court is often the final arbiter of legal disputes. The Supreme Court may grant a petition to review a decision of the Superior Court, but most petitions are denied and the ruling of the Superior Court stands. Cases are usually heard by panels of three judges sitting in Philadelphia, Harrisburg or Pittsburgh, but also may be heard en banc by nine judges. The Superior Court often travels to locations throughout Pennsylvania to hear cases. The Superior Court is responsible for appeals in criminal and most civil cases from the Courts of Common Pleas, and appeals on matters involving children and families.

Jack McVay Jr. Democrat

Vic Stabile Republican

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McVay won the two-way Democratic primary with 55 percent of the vote over Joseph Waters.

Stabile ran unopposed in the Republican primary.

According to the Pennsylvania Bar Association, the “recommended“ rating denotes that “based on legal ability, experience, integrity and temperament, the candidate would be able to perform satisfactorily as a judge or justice of the court for which he/she is a candidate.”

Court of Common Pleas According to the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania, “the Courts of Common Pleas are the general trial courts of Pennsylvania. They are organized into 60 judicial districts. Most districts follow the geographic boundaries of counties, but seven of the districts are comprised of two counties. Each district has from one to 93 judges as well as a president judge and court administrator.” There are a total of 439 judges in the Courts of Common Pleas. The four candidates for the sixth Judicial District of Erie County cross-filed, and two were selected for the Republican and Democratic primaries. They will face each other in the November General Election.

Bill Kelly Jr. Democrat

Bob Sambroak Republican

Bill Kelly won the Democratic primary by only 42 votes (26.78 percent of the vote).

Sambroak won the Republican primary with 4,832 votes (33 percent of the vote).

Kelly, an Erie County native, is an attorney in private practice and specializes in personal injury and has been in practice since 1990 upon graduation from Notre Dame Law School.

Sambroak has served as first assistant district attorney in Erie County since 2000 and has been a prosecutor since 1990. He has been an attorney for more than 30 years.

Kelly is rated as “recommended“ by the Erie County Bar Association’s poll of its 476 members.

Sambroak is also rated as “recommended“ by the Erie County Bar Association’s poll.

July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 21


HR Q&A $"/ &.1-0:&&4 i70-6/5&&3i TO PERFORM WORK FOR THEIR EMPLOYER WITHOUT COMPENSATION? In almost every case, the answer is no. While the law does recognize that individuals may choose to volunteer their time for civic or charitable organizations, the Wage & Hour Division (and the Supreme Court) have expressed concern over allowing an employee (even an employee of a nonprofit organization) to perform work without compensation. Specifically, the agency is concerned that an employee might be required to “volunteer“ additional time without pay, which would violate the intent of the Fair Labor Standards Act. In many cases, an employee cannot “volunteer“ unpaid time to his or her employer. Volunteer activities are allowed if an individual is performing

services for an organization, and is not also an employee of that organization. However, once an employer-employee relationship exists, individuals cannot volunteer additional unpaid time for their employer unless a number of conditions are met. Opinion Letter FLSA2005-33 indicates that the volunteer activities should be outside normal hours, and should be of a different capacity than the usual job duties. The Department of Labor also will consider the number of hours, whether the volunteer work displaces regular employees, and whether the services are typically associated with volunteer work. HOW LONG DO WE HAVE TO KEEP RECORDS OF BACKGROUND CHECKS? There is no specific time limit given in laws regarding background checks. However, various civil rights laws

Animal Sponsorship

Corporate Volunteer Opportunities

Company Picnics

Employee Membership Program

Whether you’re a sponsor, a donor, a volunteer or a member, the Zoo is a part of our community and our lives. To learn more about specific opportunities, contact us at 814 864-4091 or ABrosig@eriezoo.org.

list document retention periods for information using in a hiring or employment decision. Therefore, the safest course of action is to choose the civil rights law with the longest retention period. Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1866 has a four-year statute of limitations for claims of race discrimination, so the safest course of action is to keep background check records for four years. If you use a third-party provider to conduct your background checks, remember that you fall under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). The FCRA doesn’t state a time frame for document retention, so employers should use the standard described above.

www.mbabizmag.com Manufacturer & Business Association

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22 < www.mbabizmag.com < July 2013

SOCIAL

ON THE GO


DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Stacey Bruce

Avoid FLSA Missteps in Summer Employment As if the heat, bugs and potential for sunburn weren’t worrisome enough, summer also has its share of risks for employers interested in hiring seasonal help. Here are three groups of summer employees and the dangers they may pose: Interns Recent college graduates and current undergrads are often willing to work as interns during the summer. In exchange for a leg up in the job market, they might be willing to do any work, for any number of hours, for any kind of pay — or for no pay at all. But this type of arrangement can violate the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and state wage-and-hour laws. Regardless of whether they’re willing to work for free, interns whose work benefits an employer must be paid at least minimum wage for the time they put in. In addition to wage-and-hour laws, employers also have employment tax and mandatory benefit obligations. Temps Organizations that experience seasonal

increases in business know just how valuable temporary workers can be in adapting to changing staffing needs. But these employees also present possible risks.

ages may work. Some states also require employers to offer a certain number of rest breaks and/or meal periods to minor workers.

A company may be liable as a “coemployer“ with a temporary help agency for any violation of federal or state equal employment opportunity laws, such as equal pay statutes. The best defense is to ensure that the staffing agency is complying with these laws.

Summer workers can be helpful, but they still pose compliance risks. Employers should carefully monitor the payment and scheduling of these employees.

Finally, employers will want to be cautious to avoid creating an implied contract of employment. Telling a prospective summer employee, “If all goes well, you’ll have a job here after the season is over,” could lead the job candidate to sue if he or she is not kept on after the season ends. Minors If employing individuals under the age of 18, employers must be mindful of child labor laws. In addition to safety based restrictions on the types of jobs they may perform, many state laws place limits on the number of hours employees of certain

For more information about summer employment and the Fair Labor Standards Act, call the Association’s HR Hotline at 814/833-3200 or 800/815-2660.

Stacey Bruce is the HR supervisor at the Manufacturer & Business Association.

July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 23


People Buzz ASSOCIATION WELCOMES TRAINING INSTRUCTOR, CONFERENCE CENTER COORDINATOR The Manufacturer & Business Association, a not-for-profit employers’ association with more than 4,500 member companies in the tri-state region, recently announced two additions to its professional staff. Tracy Daggett has joined the MBA’s Training Department as an instructor, a role in which he will develop and present professional development training programs — such as the MBA’s regionally recognized Leadership for Team Leaders and Certified Supervisory

Skills Series — both publicly and onsite at Association member companies. He also is responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with MBA member companies in order to provide relevant and topical training classes as requested. Daggett, a Union City native, is a management professional with 16 years of experience in the retail industry, including general management, finance and production management, and general sales management. As a former store manager for Family Dollar, Rite Aid Pharmacy and Walmart, and HR manager for Lowe’s, he has extensive experience in the establishment of programs to increase sales, improve

productivity, reduce costs and improve customer relations. In addition, the Association has hired Nate Farrell as a coordinator in the Association’s Conference Center, located at 2171 West 38th Street and Pittsburgh Avenue, which has serviced more than 21,000 guests during various meetings, seminars, briefings, trade shows and special events in the past year. In his new role, Farrell is responsible for the service and execution of Conference Center customer requests. He most recently worked as a sales associate at New Motors in Erie and as a server at both the Erie Yacht Club and Erie Club.

It’s a GREAT DAY to help a nonprofit.

... ......................... August 13, 2013 It’s back! That one day when your donation can really make an impact. Last year, over $1.2 million was raised for local nonprofits on Erie Gives Day.

On August 13, visit www.ErieGives.org, donate $25 or more to your favorite nonprofit, and a prorated match will be added to your donation. This year, GE Transportation and The Erie Community Foundation increased the prorated match pool to $150,000!

24 < www.mbabizmag.com < July 2013

Fully equipped rooms at one low price. Visit mbausa.org or call Norm Zymm 814/833-­3200 or 800/815-­2660 to book your next meeting or event today.


DEPARTMENTS > Contact: Karen Torres

ERIE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES STAFF ADDITIONS, PROMOTIONS The Erie Community Foundation and its Board of Trustees announced the appointment of Nicholas Hoffman and the promotion of Tiffanie Collazo as directors of Community Impact and welcomed Susannah Weis Frigon as director of Investor Relations. As directors of Community Impact, Hoffman and Collazo are responsible for the Foundation’s Community Impact grantmaking process. They review grant proposals, manage the Foundation’s online granting system and work collaboratively with local nonprofits on numerous proactive Foundation projects. Hoffman joins the Foundation with more than 11 years of related professional experience.

He graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania where he earned his B.A. degree in philosophy with an emphasis in sociology. Prior to joining the Foundation, he was the H1B project coordinator at the Regional Center for Workforce Excellence. Collazo joined The Erie Community Foundation in 2008 as a program assistant, and in 2010 she was promoted to program associate. She is currently pursuing her degree in human services from Edinboro University and serves on the Community Advisory Panel for the Community Connections Project. As director of Investor Relations, Weis Frigon is responsible for meeting with professional advisers, estate planners, and attorneys in order to connect donors

to their favorite causes. She earned her bachelor’s degree in business management from Capella University. She previously was a managing director for UBS Financial Services. HILL, BARTH & KING CPA EARNS DESIGNATION Hill, Barth, & King LLC (HBK), Certified Public Accountants and Business Consultants, announced that Kellie Hanas, CPA has received the designation of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professional (CCIFP) from the Institute of Certified Construction Industry Financial Professionals, Inc. Hanas is a manager in the Meadville, Pennsylvania office of HBK and has more than 15 years of experience in public accounting. She joined the firm in 1997 and practices in the areas of tax planning, business consulting and financial statement preparation.

July 2013 > www.mbabizmag.com > 25


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